Shasta daisies are pretty flowers with white petals and a yellow center. They grow up to three feet tall and are common in gardens. But, if you have pets, you might worry if they are safe. This article will help you understand the risks of Shasta daisies for your dogs and cats.
Are Shasta Daisies Poisonous to Dogs
Shasta daisies are harmful to dogs. All parts of the plant, like the leaves, stems, and flowers, can make dogs sick. The main chemicals that cause this harm are sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins. These chemicals can upset your dog’s stomach and skin.
If a dog eats some of the plant, it might vomit, have diarrhea, or drool a lot. Skin problems, like rashes, can happen if the dog touches the plant. If the dog eats too much, it may feel dizzy or lose balance. Puppies or small dogs are more likely to be affected. Shasta daisy pollen can also make allergies worse. Dogs on flea and tick medicine may be more sensitive to the plant. In rare cases, a dog may act anxious, lose its appetite, or even have seizures.
Are Shasta Daisies Poisonous to Cats
Shasta daisies are also dangerous for cats. The same chemicals, sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins, affect cats. These compounds can upset their stomach and nervous system.
If a cat eats part of a Shasta daisy, it may vomit, have diarrhea, or drool. Its mouth or skin may get irritated. In severe cases, a cat may lose balance or have bloody stool. The plant’s chemicals can also irritate the cat’s eyes and nose. Cats are more at risk than dogs because they are smaller. Kittens are especially at risk. Cats also groom themselves, so they might eat pollen while cleaning their fur. Cats on flea and tick medicine can have stronger reactions to the daisies.
Comparison of Shasta Daisy Toxicity in Dogs and Cats
| Feature | Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Toxic Principles | Sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, other potential irritants | Sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, sesquiterpenes, lactones, other potential irritants |
| Common Symptoms | Vomiting, diarrhea, mouth irritation, skin irritation, hypersalivation | Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, skin/mouth irritation, incoordination |
| Severe Symptoms | Lack of coordination, agitation, appetite loss, tremors, convulsions | Lack of coordination, bloody stool, potential for more severe reactions in sensitive cats or with larger ingestion, potential fatality in kittens |
| Sensitivity Factors | Puppies, smaller breeds, dogs treated with pyrethroid-based flea and tick medications | Smaller size, kittens, cats treated with pyrethroid-based flea and tick medications |
| Pollen Effects | Skin irritation, potential increase in seasonal allergies | Skin irritation, potential ingestion through grooming |
Other Daisies and Look-Alikes
Shasta daisies aren’t the only dangerous daisies. Many daisies, especially those in the Chrysanthemum family, can harm pets. Some daisies, like the lawn daisy, are safe in tiny amounts. However, ornamental daisies like Shasta daisies are risky. Gerber daisies and chamomile are safe for cats. But plants like Ox-eye daisies and Marguerite daisies can be harmful. It’s important to identify the flowers correctly to keep your pets safe.
What to Do if Your Pet Eats a Shasta Daisy
If you think your dog or cat has eaten a Shasta daisy, wash its mouth with water. Offer it some water to drink, but only if the pet isn’t in serious distress. Bring a piece of the plant with you to the vet. If needed, call the Pet Poison Hotline at (855) 764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435. It’s always best to see a vet right away.
To keep your pet safe, put up barriers around your garden. Don’t let pets eat flowers from your garden or bring cut daisies inside unless you can keep them out of reach. Brush off any pollen from your pet’s fur. Treating poisoning involves helping the pet vomit, giving activated charcoal, and offering fluids or medicine if needed.
Conclusion
Shasta daisies can be harmful to dogs and cats. The chemicals in them can upset their stomach and cause skin problems. Severe reactions are rare but possible, so it’s important to keep pets away from these flowers. If your pet eats a Shasta daisy, see a vet quickly.